Nursing Student w/ PKD...any others out there?

I am a newbie nursing student @ local college RN program. I was diagnosed a few years back w/ PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease). I have had some difficulties with the disease, but most issues are controlled by diet, and meds.

My question is, are there any other nursing students or nurses dealing w/ PKD? Does it interfere w/ work, school or family? How do you cope? Just looking for a little insight, maybe some advice.

hi goshin,i have both pkd and coronary artery diseae s/p 2 open-heart surgeries and work full time. there are days that i am so tired, but i manange to keep going. i make sure that when i am off to get plenty of rest, take my meds religously and eat right. i do have times that i get sick and have to be off from work, but my nurse manager is fully aware of my health problems and knew it when i was hired. so yes, it is doable, keep up you head up and know that you are not alone. one of the biggest problems i face is the side effects from taking over 8 pills every morning and 2 at night. 3 of those are for bp and they can make me soooooo tired and cause me to gain weight. but i lok at it like this those meds are keeping my around alot longer and i am very thankfull that i am able to get them. hope this helps to boost you up !!

May 1, '07

Worked with an RN who had a transplant due to polycystic kidney dz. That was over 5 years ago and she is doing great.

May 1, '07

I was diagnosed with Parkinson's four years ago... I have to use a scooter to get from the parking garage to the main hospital. I had to have two back surgeries two years ago (unrelated to Parkinson's) - I used a cane for approximately 10 months. At the time, the ICU in which I worked was noted for its caring and nurturing nurses - they bent over backwards to help me. Many, many nights I cried from pain (until the surgeries set me free)... I owe so much to my coworkers there. I hated to leave but needed a change.

Recently I transferred to a new unit (Cardiac) - my bosses have been sooooo wonderful and my coworkers just as sweet and understanding. I can do any of my nursing requirements except getting up from the floor. I feel so embarrassed when and if I drop something because I don't dare bend down!
I am on the most modern/cutting edge drugs; my neurologist is wonderful - I participated in a study at Shands and I expect to work at least another 9 years.

I encourage you to do what makes you happy - stay on top of your disease and don't give up!!! God bless!

Last edit by walk6miles on May 1, '07
: Reason: spelling error

May 2, '07

thanks to everyone for your posts! its just nice to know that i'm not alone sometimes. nursing school has been a blessing, i've met some of the best people in the world (students, teachers, and posters on here). i am also blessed with the most amazing wife, without her support i'm not sure where i'd be.

Your stories help me keep things in perspective, and focus on my family and studies! Thank you!